Question

The RT is assessing a 3-day-old infant born at 32 weeks gestation. The neonate's heart rate is 140 bpm. Which of the following should the RT do?

a) Administer surfactant
b) Increase oxygen delivery
c) Assess for signs of infection
d) Consider normal for age

Answer 1

The neonate's heart rate is within the normal range for their age, according to the Apgar score.

Step-by-step explanation:

The RT should consider the neonate's heart rate of 140 bpm as normal for their age. According to the Apgar score, heart rate is one of the critical criteria assessed to determine the newborn's overall health and need for medical attention. A score of 8 or above is considered normal, and a score lower than 7 may indicate the need for immediate medical assistance. Since the neonate's heart rate falls within the normal range, the RT does not need to administer surfactant, increase oxygen delivery, or assess for signs of infection.